Preparing for Hajj

Introduction

Physical preparation

It is important to bear in mind that the Hajj requires considerable physical exertion in the form of sitting, standing and walking. It is thus advisable to undertake some form of exercise in preparation which may involve prolonged walks and light jogging to get into shape.

Preparing the mind

To gain the most out of this spiritual journey, we advise pilgrims to spend time learning about the rituals of Hajj, to reflect on the wisdom behind such acts of worship and to read about the experiences of those who have previously made this journey. Watching documentaries on the Hajj will also assist in visualising the rituals in action. We are not endorsing one book over another but the following collection may help to focus one’s mind:

MECCA THE BLESSED, MEDINA THE RADIANT, THE HOLIEST CITIES OF ISLAM: Photographs by Ali Kazuyoshi Nomachi, Essay by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
What to take
What to take and what to wear are perhaps the most common questions asked by pilgrims. Below is a checklist of recommended travel items. This is by no means an exhaustive list; we also recommend speaking to friends and family for advice.

Reasonable size – think about getting it on top of the bus and being thrown around! Hard case is preferable to soft but either will do.

Try to find an innovative way of identifying your suitcase – very useful when there are so many similar styles and colours. Please note it is crucial you ensure your suitcase and all hand luggage are labeled.

A few more important suggestions & why

Sunglasses ― Sunglasses are essential for those whose eyes are strained by the bright sunlight
Money* / ATM cards ― Cash works well, plenty of exchanges
Money belt/Waist pouch ― To keep money, passport & valuables
Water bottle ― Hydration is important! In the interest of ecology and recycling our advice is that you purchase water for your journey in the departure lounge and try to use the same container throughout the journey
A plastic bottle ― Right throughout your Hajj refilling it constantly with Zam Zam for your use. See if you can arrive back in the UK with the same bottle – well done!
Umbrella ― Optional; available there
Electric shaver/trimmer ― For shaving your own/other brother’s heads (only if out of Ihram)
Scissors** ― For cutting hair, small pair of nail scissors ideal
Qur’an & books ― Your ‘own’ Qur’an; Any Hajj reading
Note book and pen ― For taking notes during talks/ reminder
Face Towel ― For use in Mina
Padlock for safety deposit box ― Needed for safety deposit boxes
* How much spending money will you need? Don’t get carried away with shopping. You’ll regret it in retrospect. Dates & Zamzam are ideal gifts

** Pack all scissors and knives in main luggage. These will be confiscated if left in hand luggage. Be sure to put all the liquids you are carrying on board the aeroplane in a clear plastic bag and keep them within the 100ml restrictions

Loose, comfortable clothes with pyjamas, loose trousers, underneath
Abayah / Shalwar Kamees
Comfortable shoes/sandals are essential on Hajj. Buy your footwear now and wear them regularly so that your feet are used to them before Hajj. Good Sandals should be purchased from Clarks or any outdoor shops. If you have old sandals your feet are used to and are fit for the purpose – best to use them. Crocks are ideal for Hajj for both men and women. They are light and because they do not absorb water and dry out quickly they are ideal for regular performance of Wudu.

We would not recommend flip flops unless you are very accustomed to wearing them regularly. Please note that the amount of walking done on Hajj requires good footwear.

Health & Safety
Important

If you have a health condition, seek your doctor’s advice to help you decide whether you are fit to travel and if you are, then ask your doctor to confirm it in writing. If you are on medication, take a supply long enough to last you through the trip.

Vaccinations

Meningococcal A, C, W135 and Y is obligatory Your GP will give you advice on other vaccinations.

Hajji Flu

Everyone gets it. Be Prepared! Can be severe or light – best to have the Flu jab before going on Hajj.

Hydration

Very important to drink enough fluids e.g. Water,preferably Zam Zam, rather than fizzy drinks (Yoghurt drink)

Diet

Be careful when you eat from outside vendors. Eat plenty of fresh fruit.

Footwear

The need for good comfortable, sensible footwear cannot be overemphasised. Blisters can cause a problem if not treated promptly Sore feet from walking on hard marble – suggest slipper socks for women Soreness from rubbing ‘skin on skin’ in heat (e.g. inner thighs) – use Vaseline.

Sisters

You can delay your period for a time by using Norethisterone. Speak to your GP and get full advice on how and when to use it.

During Hajj

Drink plenty of fluids and always carry a small water bottle with you. Additionally, in order to prevent cramps and headaches

If you need to see a doctor, the Saudi authorities provide free medical services for all pilgrims. Alternatively, you can seek advice from any of the doctors and pharmacists within our group.

Ambulance: 997
Police: 999
There are medical facilities for pilgrims at the Great Mosque in Makkah should you require medical assistance. Clinics have a white sign with a red crescent and can be found at the following locations:

Bab Ajyad: Door number 5
Bab Abdul Aziz: Door number 1
Bab Fatah: Door number 45
Hospitals in Makkah include the Ajyad Hospital and Noor Hospital. In Madinah there is no medical clinic at the Great Mosque but a Saudi-German Hospital is located nearby.

Additionally, the Foreign Office sends an official annual British Hajj Delegation to Saudi Arabia annually which runs a medical clinic. The delegation’s details will be announced prior to Hajj.

The website below provides some important information on staying healthy and safe during Hajj with a downloadable comprehensive guide:

http://www.idph-research.org/health-at-hajj.html

Need assist or consultation? Feel free to live chat with our team. Or phone us +4412 1773 4123

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